15 Dog Breeds That Are Not Suitable as Family Pets

Choosing the right dog for your family is crucial, as different breeds have varying temperaments, energy levels, and needs. While many dogs make excellent furry friends for families, some breeds may not be the best fit for households with children or other pets. Here are 15 dog breeds that may not be suitable as family pets.

Chow Chow

Chow Chows are independent and aloof, which can make them challenging in a family setting. They tend to be reserved and can be aggressive if not properly socialized. Chow Chows are also often not very tolerant of rough play or unpredictable behavior from children. Additionally, their protective instincts can lead to aggression towards strangers or other pets.

Akita

Akitas are very loyal and protective, traits that can sometimes make them unsuitable for families, especially those with young children. They have strong guarding instincts and can be aggressive towards strangers and other animals. Akitas are also known for their independent and dominant nature, which requires a firm and experienced hand.

Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are strong, energetic dogs bred for endurance in harsh conditions. As a result, their high energy levels and strong-willed nature can make them difficult to manage in a family setting. Malamutes are also independent and can be challenging to train. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, which may be difficult for a busy family to provide.

Dalmatian

While Dalmatians can be affectionate and loyal, they are not always patient with children and can become easily agitated. Dalmatians have a strong-willed personality and can be difficult to train, making them better suited for experienced dog owners. They are also prone to certain health issues, such as deafness and urinary stones, which require careful management.

Weimaraner

Weimaraners are energetic and intelligent dogs that also need exercise and mental stimulation. They have a strong prey drive and can be difficult to control if not properly trained. Weimaraners can become destructive if they do not receive enough exercise or if they are left alone for long periods. They can also be overly excitable and may not be tolerant of young children or other pets.

Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs with boundless energy, requiring significant physical activity and mental engagement. Their high energy and strong prey drive can make them less ideal for households with young children or other pets. Known for their independent and stubborn streaks, Jack Russells can be challenging to train. They also tend to dig and chase behaviors that might be difficult to control in a family environment.

Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are known for their elegant appearance and aloof nature. They are independent dogs that can be difficult to train and are not always affectionate with their owners. Afghan Hounds are often also reserved and can be standoffish with strangers, making them less suitable for a family environment. Their high grooming needs and strong prey drive can also add to the challenges of owning this breed.

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are large, powerful dogs bred for guarding and protection. Their strong protective instincts and dominant nature can make them difficult to manage in a family setting, especially with small children. Cane Corsos require firm training and early socialization to ensure they do not become overly aggressive or territorial. Their size and strength can also make them difficult to control, and they may not tolerate the rough play often associated with children.

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs have strong protective instincts and can be wary of strangers, making them better suited for experienced dog owners. Bullmastiffs also need early socialization and consistent training to ensure they do not become overly aggressive or territorial. Their large size can also make them prone to joint issues and other health problems, which require careful management.

Basenji

Basenjis are independent and often aloof dogs that can be difficult to train. They are known for their cat-like personalities and are not always affectionate with their owners. Basenjis are also known for being escape artists, which can make them challenging to manage in a family setting. Their high energy levels and strong prey drive can make them unsuitable for families with young children or other pets.

Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are small but independent dogs with a strong-willed nature. These pups can be aloof with strangers, making them less suitable for a family environment. Shiba Inus are also known for their strong prey drive and can be difficult to control if not properly trained. Families with young children or those looking for an affectionate, easygoing pet may find the Shiba Inu to be a challenging breed.

Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino is a powerful and athletic breed originally bred for big-game hunting. Their strong prey drive and dominant nature can make them unsuitable for families with young children or other pets. Dogo Argentinos require firm, consistent training and early socialization to ensure they do not become overly aggressive or difficult to manage. Their size and strength can also make them difficult to control.

Fila Brasileiro

Fila Brasileiros, also called Brazilian Mastiffs, are large and powerful dogs originally bred for guarding and protection. They have strong protective instincts and can be wary or aggressive toward strangers. Due to their natural tendencies, Fila Brasileiros need firm, consistent training and early socialization to prevent them from becoming overly aggressive or territorial. Their substantial size and strength can make them challenging to manage, especially in households with kids, as they may not tolerate rough play. 

Pekingese

Pekingese are small but independent dogs that can be difficult to train. They are known for their strong-willed personalities and can be aloof with strangers. Pekingese may not tolerate rough play or the unpredictability of young children, making them less suitable for a family environment. Their long coat requires regular grooming, which can be time-consuming for a busy family.

Tosa Inu

Tosa Inus are large, powerful dogs originally bred for fighting in Japan. They are known for their strong protective instincts and can be aggressive towards strangers and other animals. Tosa Inus need firm, consistent training and early socialization to stay calm and manageable. These pups are best suited to experienced dog owners who can provide the necessary training and leadership.